A new, or old, bookcase can serve just as well as a dresser for holding china, cutlery and linens. Be sure not to overload shelves with stacks of heavy crockery.

An old-fashioned type of wheeled trolley with shelves is useful in a small kitchen for holding anything from ingredients to cookbooks, pots, pans and utensils. Look for slim styles that will fit into narrow spaces when not in use.

Wire shelf units are ideal for an industrial chic look but they also have a very practical purpose allowing air to circulate helping to keep fruit and vegetables fresh.